benzoic acid

noun

, Chemistry, Pharmacology.

1. a white, crystalline, slightly water-soluble powder, C 7 H 6 O 2 , usually derived from benzoin or other balsams, or synthesized from phthalic acid or toluene: used chiefly as a preservative, in the synthesis of dyes, and in medicine as a germicide.

benzoic acid

noun

1. a white crystalline solid occurring in many natural resins, used in the manufacture of benzoates, plasticizers, and dyes and as a food preservative ( E210 ). Formula: C 6 H 5 COOH Systematic namebenzenecarboxylic acid

benzoic acid

/ bĕn-zō′ĭk /

1. A white, crystalline acid used in preserving food, as a cosmetic, and in medicine. Benzoic acid consists of a benzene ring with a carboxyl group (COOH) attached. It occurs naturally in some plants. Chemical formula: C 7 H 6 O 2 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of benzoic acid¹

First recorded in 1785–95